Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2021 - PHIL 310 D100

Logic, Proofs and Set Theory (3)

Class Number: 2212

Delivery Method: Remote

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 11 – Apr 16, 2021: Fri, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 28, 2021
    Wed, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    One of PHIL 110, 210, 314, 315, or MACM 101; or a minimum of 12 units in MATH.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An advanced introduction to the logical techniques and concepts required for the construction of proofs, including the fundamental principles of set theory and concepts such as set, relation, function, sequence, orderings and others. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

Students in many disciplines must develop skills in understanding and constructing proofs using mathematical techniques that are based in formal logic. This course teaches the fundamental tools and strategies needed to become effective at writing, reading, and assessing mathematical proofs. The main topics for the course will be first-order logic and axiomatic set theory. In the last few weeks of the course, we will examine applications to the foundations of mathematics, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy, based on student preferences. This course is perfectly suited for students with a formal background who seek to improve their ability to make proofs, be they in mathematics, computer science, linguistics, philosophy, or other disciplines containing mathematical content.

The lectures will present the material in a clear and engaging way. Students are expected to attend classes and participate.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Students taking this course will

  • develop a solid and systematic approach to the formal logic underlying proofs.
  • learn the rigorous standards of proofs in axiomatized theories.
  • understand the fundamental principles of set theory---which provides the basis for most of modern mathematics and formal methods used across disciplines.
  • acquire a precise understanding of fundamental concepts such a set, relation, function, sequence, orderings, etc.
  • improve their skills at reading, interpreting, and reading proofs written in “mathematical English.”
  • develop a capacity to confidently develop and self-assess putative proofs.
PHIL 310 may be applied towards the Quantitative Requirement.

Grading

  • 10 homework assignments, worth 5% each 50%
  • Midterm exam 20%
  • Final exam 30%

NOTES:

Lecture delivery: remote, synchronous.  Online presence is required during scheduled lecture time.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Students must have access to the internet and a computer or other device that permits streaming video, word processing and teleconferencing with Zoom.

 

REQUIRED READING:

A set of readings in PDF will be distributed to students. No textbook required.


Department Undergraduate Notes:

Thinking of a Philosophy Major or Minor? The Concentration in Law and Philosophy? The Certificate in Ethics? The Philosophy and Methodology of Science Certificate?
Contact the PHIL Advisor at philmgr@sfu.ca   More details on our website: SFU Philosophy

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SPRING 2021

Teaching at SFU in spring 2021 will be conducted primarily through remote methods. There will be in-person course components in a few exceptional cases where this is fundamental to the educational goals of the course. Such course components will be clearly identified at registration, as will course components that will be “live” (synchronous) vs. at your own pace (asynchronous). Enrollment acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes. To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the internet. In some cases your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams. If proctoring software will be used, this will be confirmed in the first week of class.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112).